Suffolk Reporter

In Patchogue, New York, Senator Dean Murray announced the signing of a significant amendment to "Gio's Law" by Governor Kathy Hochul. This legislation permits law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel in counties outside New York City to carry and administer EPIPENs during emergencies.

Senator Murray highlighted the importance of this development as the holiday season approaches, a time when food allergy interactions are more likely. He expressed satisfaction with the bipartisan effort that led to this legislative change, co-sponsored by Senator Julia Salazar.

Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of allergic reactions, stating, "Allergic reactions can be extremely dangerous, and seconds count to ensure treatment is administered in time to save a life." She acknowledged the need for first responders in Suffolk and Nassau Counties to have epi-pens readily available.

Senator Salazar noted the importance of equipping first responders on Long Island and Westchester with epinephrine auto-injectors. She thanked her colleagues for their efforts in expanding the law and acknowledged the Cipriano family for inspiring this initiative through their loss.

Anaphylaxis poses a serious threat nationwide, claiming hundreds of lives annually. The CDC reports that allergies affect a significant portion of both adults and children in the U.S., underscoring the necessity of this legislative amendment. In New York alone, over 218,000 students face life-threatening food allergies.

The amendment (S.7617 / A.7961), led by Senators Murray and Salazar, rectifies an oversight in the original law that excluded certain counties from implementing such programs due to population restrictions. With immediate effect following Governor Hochul's signature, initiatives like Suffolk County's EPIPEN program can now proceed without delay.

This legislative success demonstrates effective collaboration between lawmakers across party lines in Albany. It underscores the importance of cooperation between county and state governments to address critical health issues and improve safety outcomes for residents throughout New York State.